Stuart Palmer
Job Title: Partner and Head of Witney office
Location: Witney
As a boy at comprehensive school, Stuart was told the law was not for him. He was undeterred. Three years later, after university and without the funds for law school, he worked in sales during the recession of the early 90s, gaining valuable commercial experience before finally taking his LPC. He started his training contract with Bower Bailey in 1996, qualified in 1998 and became a partner just two years later.
Stuart’s early success at Bower Bailey was down to two key factors. First and foremost was his drive and diligence. His commercial experience had taught him the value of getting out and finding clients – that you can’t wait for them to come to you. The second factor was the speed with which the firm recognised and began to reward his contribution.
Over the years, by developing contacts and going the extra mile to achieve the desired outcome for clients, Stuart steadily built up a large and loyal client base. He is now one of the most successful property lawyers in the region, with a rich and varied mix of commercial, institutional and private clients.
Stuart says one of the best things about Bower Bailey is that it really is a meritocracy. “So many other firms say they are, but you can wait years to get ahead. At Bower Bailey, we are not hamstrung by hierarchy. If you make a contribution, you’ll be recognised and rewarded. It is a genuine opportunity. And as a trainee, you’ll receive proper hands-on training with client contact. Also, at Bower Bailey, you’ll receive rounded, well-structured training with regular feedback. And you’ll find it’s not all about the law – it’s about doing the very best for your clients.”
Another key factor for Stuart is that, with a daily commute of only 15 – 20 minutes from home to office, he also manages to have a work-life balance. Time for his family and time to enjoy all that Oxford, Witney and the surrounding area has to offer. With the hilly Cotswolds on his doorstep, Stuart is able to pursue his hobby making time for a serious cycle most weekends. It’s not all about the law, after all.
